The human breast, a complex and dynamic organ, undergoes various transformations throughout life, influencing its appearance and function. Among these normal anatomical features are small bumps on the areola, known as Montgomery tubercles, which can sometimes raise questions due to their visibility. Understanding these natural parts of breast anatomy helps clarify their purpose and progression, easing any concerns about their presence.
What Are Montgomery Tubercles?
Montgomery tubercles are small, raised bumps located on the areola, the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple. These structures are essentially modified sebaceous glands, which are oil-producing glands found throughout the body. Named after William Fetherstone Montgomery, an obstetrician who described them in 1837, they are also referred to as Montgomery glands or areolar glands. Their appearance can resemble goosebumps and they vary in size, typically ranging from one to five millimeters, and can be pink, red, white, yellow, brown, or brownish-black.
The primary function of Montgomery tubercles is to produce an oily, waxy secretion called sebum. This sebum serves to lubricate and protect the nipple and areola, preventing dryness, cracking, and infection. The secreted oil also possesses antibacterial properties, helping to maintain a healthy environment around the nipple. Beyond lubrication and protection, these glands are thought to play a role in guiding infants during breastfeeding by emitting a specific scent that attracts the baby to the breast. The number of these tubercles can vary significantly among individuals, with some having just a few and others having dozens on each breast.
The Natural Progression of Montgomery Tubercles
Montgomery tubercles are a permanent part of breast anatomy; therefore, they do not “go away” in the sense of disappearing entirely. Instead, their visibility and prominence can fluctuate significantly throughout an individual’s life, largely influenced by hormonal shifts. For instance, they frequently become more prominent during puberty, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
During pregnancy, the breasts prepare for lactation, and Montgomery tubercles typically enlarge and become more visible, sometimes serving as an early sign of pregnancy even before a missed period. This enlargement allows them to produce more oil to lubricate the expanding areolas, preventing dryness and aiding in healthy breastfeeding. After lactation ceases or pregnancy concludes, their size and prominence often decrease, though they may not return to their exact pre-pregnancy state. Outside of pregnancy and breastfeeding, hormonal fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle can also lead to increased noticeability of these tubercles. Other factors like stress, certain medications, changes in body weight, cold temperatures, or nipple stimulation can also influence their visibility.
Most of the time, these changes are a normal and healthy part of breast function and require no intervention. However, like any skin gland, Montgomery tubercles can occasionally become blocked, inflamed, or infected. It is important to avoid squeezing or picking at them, as this can introduce bacteria and lead to infection. If the tubercles become painful, red, swollen, or if there is any discharge (especially pus or blood), seek medical advice, as these symptoms could indicate an infection requiring treatment such as antibiotics. Maintaining good hygiene by gently washing the breasts with warm water, particularly during pregnancy and breastfeeding, helps support the natural function of these glands.